Brussels to test self-driving bus next summer

Brussels' first self-driving bus is due to make its way through the city's streets next summer - but you won't be able to take a ride just yet.

The Stib will carry out the tests in partnership with Paris public transport operator RATP, which has already done four experiments of increasing difficulty in the French capital.

The Brussels operator has put out a tender and is looking to rent two self-driving buses, with a capacity between six and 10 passengers, to carry out short shuttle exercises.

The buses will be autonomous, but a driver will always be on board during the tests to ensure safety. The location for next summer's experiment - which will cost more than €500,000 - has not yet been decided.

Han-sur-Lesse, in Namur province, became the first in Belgium to introduce a driverless bus service this week, with a 15-capacity mini-bus ferrying visitors to the caves.